Gisborne Surf
When it comes to surfing in Aotearoa, there’s one place that stands out above the rest: Gisborne. With consistent swell, a huge variety of surf breaks for all abilities, lower crowd factors than more populated areas, and a laid-back coastal culture, Gisborne is rightly known as the Surf Capital of New Zealand. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer chasing barrels or a beginner catching your first wave, Gisborne has something for everyone.
There are other notable areas of amazing surf like Dunedin, Taranaki and Raglan, but Gizzy holds the top place in our hearts and minds for good reason.
At Blitz Surf Shop, we’ve been part of the local surf scene for decades (we're the 2nd oldest surf shop in New Zealand being established way back in 1983) — supplying surfboards, wetsuits, surfwear, and expert advice to locals and visitors alike. Here’s why Gisborne deserves the surf capital crown.
🌊 Consistent Swell, All Year Round
Situated on the east coast of the North Island, Gisborne is perfectly positioned to receive swells from the Pacific Ocean with a large swell window form the SW to NE. With more than 200 surfable days a year, you’ll rarely go long without a wave. Summer brings playful peaks for learners, while winter often delivers powerful surf and lower crowds for more advanced riders.
👉 Check the latest conditions with our Wainui Beach live surf camera — updated in real time so you can see what’s happening before you paddle out.
🏄 World-Class Variety of Surf Breaks
One of Gisborne’s biggest advantages is the sheer variety of breaks within a short drive:
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Wainui Beach – The heart of Gisborne surfing, offering multiple peaks along its golden sand stretch. From No Access to Schools, there’s always a wave to be found. Read our full Wainui surf breaks guide. At times world clas barrels can be found at Wainui when conditions are right. Expect a high level of surfing on these days
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Makorori Beach – Famous for its long rides at the Point, mellow walls at Red Bus, and high consistency due to the rock and sand make up of the breaks... perfect for everyone from shortboarders to longboarders and everytihg in between. Check out our Makorori surf breaks blog for a deep dive.
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Town Beaches, Sponge Bay, Big River and beyond – A mix of beach breaks, rocky reefs, river bars and more for every skill level.
This concentration of quality surf within such a small radius makes Gisborne unique compared to other NZ surf towns. On top of that there are plenty of options north up SH35 on the East Coast and south to Mahia with not too much driving
🌅 A Surf Culture Like No Other
Surfing isn’t just a sport in Gisborne — it’s a lifestyle. From dawn patrols before school to evening glass-offs with the whānau, surf culture runs deep here.
At Blitz Surf Shop, we see it daily: surfers of all ages, mulitple generations and abilities heading out to Wainui, kitted out in wetsuits, hooded towels, and surfboards. Gisborne’s surf scene is also proudly community-driven, with events like the New Zealand Surfing Nationals held here every few years and local surf comps like the Makorori First Light Longboard compe bringing everyone together.
👉 If you’re visiting, check out our Gisborne Surfing Guide for tips on breaks, gear, and local surf etiquette. Gizzy urfers are a great bunch but make sure you follow good etiquette so that you are welcomed into the line up.
🚐 Surf Travel Destination
For Kiwi surfers, Gisborne is a road trip must-do. The combination of reliable waves, stunning beaches, and a welcoming community makes it an unforgettable destination. International surfers are catching on too, often comparing Gisborne’s uncrowded waves to some of the best surf zones overseas.
With long summer days, friendly locals, and epic surf, it’s no wonder Gisborne has become the go-to spot for surf missions.
🏄 Gear Up at Blitz Surf Shop
Of course, every surf capital needs a hub — and that’s where we come in. At Blitz Surf Shop in Gisborne, we stock everything you need to make the most of the local surf:
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Surfboards for beginners through to performance riders
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Wetsuits for every season
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Hooded towels, surf accessories, and lifestyle gear
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Expert local advice on where to surf and when
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, we’re here to help you score waves and enjoy the best of Gisborne surf culture.
🌊 Why Gisborne is the Surf Capital of NZ
With its consistent swell, variety of breaks, deep-rooted surf culture, and stunning coastline, Gisborne is more than just a surf town — it’s the Surf Capital of New Zealand.
So grab your board, check the Wainui Beach live surf cam, and come experience the magic of Gisborne surfing for yourself. And if you need gear, advice, or even just a chat about the day’s conditions, the team at Blitz Surf Shop has you covered.
